“It’s a situation which is not ideal for Jay. It’s an accusation he denies and we’re going to support him. It’s not just about us losing Jay for five games, it’s a bit more serious than that, his future after the game – whether he wants to be a coach or go into business.

Footage of the incident at the centre of the allegation shows Rodriguez and Bong arguing and bumping into each other. Rodriguez then holds his nose and waves his hand as if to gesture Bong smells.

Bong immediately complained to referee Martin Atkinson who included the incident in his report, and the defender told French television channel SFR Sport Rodriguez’s comment was “racist in nature”.

Pardew said: “We’re in that world where everyone has to be so careful and talking about it I’m nervous. I spoke to the PFA this morning and tried to speak to Kick It Out.

AP: “It’s a situation that isn’t ideal for Jay. He denies the allegations and as a club we will support him. He’s upset about it. Hopefully he can concentrate on his football and not worry too much about that situation.”#WBA